Political and Social Activism

The North Country Women were involved in an array of activities related to activism, including both political and social. Known for their involvement with the 765Kv power line protests in the mid-1970’s as well as starting WomanSchool, Women’s Festival, and actively participating in various conferences related to women and women’s rights, these women show what can be accomplished when women come together.

765Kv Power Line

During the 1970’s, the construction of power lines affected numerous communities across the United States. In 1975, the North Country faced the threat of a new power line from Canada to New York City, the building of the 765 KV power line. This power line crossed over property of local community members who were denied any direct benefit to the power and often spanned farms that lacked access to power themselves. As a result, both local community members and women from the North Country came together to form a collective protest against the construction of the power line due to its inefficiencies, dangers, and health concerns.

Protest from the mid-‘70s, organized by UPSET, the organization that worked against the construction of nuclear power plants and the 765Kv powerline. From left to right is Laurie Willow, her son Jason on the horse, Gabe Rocco, and Ellen Rocco. Photo Credit: Ellen Rocco. — Protest from the mid-‘70s, organized by UPSET, the organization that worked against the construction of nuclear power plants and the 765Kv power line. From left to right is Laurie Willow, Willow’s son Jason on the horse, Gabe Rocco, and Ellen Rocco. Photo courtesy of Ellen Rocco.

Despite the ultimate construction of the power line, the protests of the North Country community represents women standing up for themselves in what they believe in and taking action. In this case, forming and supporting a group effort as a community against the shared threat of the power line. Through protesting and promoting activism, the North Country women have shown that by coming together with a common interest, changes can happen.

WomanSchool and Women’s Festival

North Country women were involved in an array of activities during their time. A notable activity started by the North Country Women was WomanSchool; classes taught by women for women to learn new skills and knowledge. Such classes included mechanics, political action, printmaking, personal growth seminars, and folk guitar, among others. The classes were often held at the North Country Women’s Center in Canton and run by local women who shared their knowledge and expertise. Along with WomanSchool, there was also an annual women’s festival sponsored by the North Country Women to raise consciousness for women in St. Lawrence and Franklin Counties.